Use the write-in to send a message in Sweden

Wednesday

Oct 31, 2007 at 12:01 AMOct 31, 2007 at 1:23 PM

Two years ago I ran for councilman for Sweden Town Board.

Two years ago I ran for councilman for Sweden Town Board. Afterward, I wrote a letter thanking the voters for all the support and votes I received. I also encouraged people to run for a position themselves and get involved in their government.

I’ll repeat myself by saying, “Nobody should run unopposed.”

Another election cycle is here and again there is a serious lack of opposition to the incumbents. The current Town Board members think they must be doing a good job because nobody opposes them. After my experience of running for councilman, I made many new friends and heard different points of view on several issues.

One thing stood out above all, a great many people do disagree with the policies and actions of our Town Board, so the current leadership is wrong to assume everyone is satisfied and supports all their actions. The lack of opposition creates apathy; therefore, voter turnout is low.

The reality is simply a matter of numbers (Republicans outnumber all other political parties), apathy and fear of retribution. People figure, “Why bother?”
Voting was light two years ago and it will probably be light again. It will be just another “coronation of incumbents.” We need “true diversity” in local government and one-party rule simply doesn’t provide it.

A little-used concept called the write-in vote gives voters the right to write in a name of any qualified person they’d like to see elected. This offers voters an opportunity to select someone other than the incumbents. You have a choice. This is not a wasted vote as incumbents would have you believe.

Rather, it sends a message that you don’t accept the incumbents’ policies, and one-sided views. While exposing myself to scrutiny, I sincerely believe in what I am expressing to you. If enough voters turn out, we can make a difference.

I strongly recommend that everyone get out and vote! If you don’t like the lack of “choice,” write in the name of someone you prefer. Demonstrate to the incumbents that you aren’t satisfied and want a change. I intend to do so.

George F. Lloyd
Redman Road
Sweden

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